The Complete Guide to Exceptional Gaming Coaching

Set Concrete Goals

Well-defined goals provide direction and motivation by laying out tangible skills improvements to work towards.

Do:

• Set numeric improvement goals like increasing headshot % or KDA by X amount

• Use timebound goals like raising rank by Y date

• Make goals challenging but achievable based on current skill levels

Don't:

• Have vague, general goals like "improve my skills"

• Neglect adding timeframes to work within

• Make goals too easy or seemingly impossible

To keep students engaged, match goals to their current ability levels and gaming backgrounds. A beginner's goals will differ from a seasoned competitor's.

"I want to improve my skill" shows poor goal setting. "I will raise my headshot % from 20% to 30% and reach Platinum rank in Valorant by end of August" exemplifies robust, motivating goals.

Create Custom Training Plans

With concrete goals set, design a comprehensive training plan that methodically develops the required abilities through scheduled lessons, drills, VOD reviews, benchmark check-ins, and more.

• Build 4-8 week plans mapping out how to achieve goals

• Schedule lessons and practice sessions covering fundamentals first before advanced tactics

• Adapt plans over time based on student progress and changing development needs

Following consistent, accountable training is what drives lasting skill improvements versus fluctuating motivation levels.

Focus on Fundamentals First

It's tempting to skip ahead to advanced tactics and niche skills. But exceptional coaching builds skill from the ground up starting with rock-solid fundamentals applicable to any game or role.

Core fundamentals to instill include:

• Aiming - Target tracking, flicking, crosshair placement

• Positioning - Strategic location selection, minimap awareness

• Reaction Time - Improving speed and accuracy of reactions

• Situational Awareness - Recognizing opportunities, reading the field

• Communication - Callouts, coordinating with teammates

• Team Play - Executing strategies, playing roles

Mastering fundamentals establishes a foundation for adding more complex skills later. Estimate 50% of coaching time on fundamentals upfront.

Deeply Analyze Students' Gameplay

Even foundational skills must be tailored to each gamer's specific needs. This requires thoroughly analyzing their gameplay to pinpoint precise improvement areas.

• Review VODs together to identify strengths, weaknesses, tendencies and gaps

• Create training plans targeting the exact skills and areas each student needs to level up

• No two players' developmental needs are the same. Customize coaching accordingly.

Regular VOD reviews ensure training remains focused on the right objectives based on the student's evolving gameplay and skills.

Communicate Openly and Regularly

Consistent communication keeps students motivated and training on track. Students should know they can come to you anytime for guidance.

• Check in frequently via their preferred channel

• Quickly respond to questions and concerns

• Discuss progress, blocks, mindset regularly

• Be available for guidance outside of sessions

Set communication expectations upfront. Students will be more open knowing you're invested in their ongoing development.

Maintain Accountability

Without accountability, students often plateau or stray from training plans. Use milestones and regular check-ins to gently keep them focused on goals.

• Review plans weekly and check if they are on track

• Celebrate small wins to highlight progress

• Course correct actions kindly if needed

• Balance accountability with patience - progress takes time

Accountability is crucial, but the coach-student relationship thrives on mutual trust and respect.

Prioritize Mindset Work

Even great mechanics need the right mindset to excel. Help gamers build skills like:

• Managing tilt - Staying calm under pressure

• Handling anxiety - Relaxation and self-talk techniques

• Motivation strategies - Sparking internal drive over time

• Confidence building - Bolstering self-assuredness

• Toxicity mitigation - Ignoring or constructive coping

Mindset training ensures students maximize talent by showing up focused and determined. Don't overlook psychology's impact on performance.

Customize for Game Types and Roles

Coaching techniques should adapt based on the game type and player's role. For example:

• MOBAs: Focus on meta picks, map awareness, team fights

• Shooters: Prioritize aim training, positioning, reaction time

• RTS: Multitasking, build orders, resource management

• Support roles: Game sense, assist skills, enabling carries

While fundamentals remain consistent, apply coaching principles specifically for each game and role.

Master Delivery Formats

Coaching can be delivered through:

• In-person - Higher engagement but scheduling and location dependent

• Online - More convenient but harder personal connection

• Hybrid - Balances in-person key sessions with online training

Structure the format and environment to maximize student focus and training quality. Set expectations clearly upfront.

Build the Coach-Player Relationship

An effective coach-student relationship thrives on:

• Clear role expectations and boundaries

• Mutual trust and respect

• Consistent, open communication

• Celebrating wins frequently

• Providing constructive feedback kindly

Take time to establish rapport and get to know your students. They'll be more receptive learning from someone invested in their development.

Bringing these techniques together elevates your coaching to unlock every student's potential. Refine your approach continuously based on evolving needs. Now get out there and help gamers reach new heights!